Santa Cruz Employment Lawyer
Top Employment Attorney in Santa Cruz
Standing Strong for Santa Cruz Employees—Every Step of the Way.
I know firsthand that Santa Cruz isn’t just any place—it’s special. From the vibrant beachside culture to the tech startups and eco-friendly businesses, Santa Cruz has its own way of doing things. But even in a place as progressive and tight-knit as this, workers still face challenges on the job. That’s where I come in.
My name is John McCarthy, and I’m here to help workers across Santa Cruz and beyond. Whether you’ve been wrongfully terminated, retaliated against, harassed, or discriminated against, I’m on your side. I built this practice to protect employees from the injustices they face in the workplace and to stand up to employers who cross the line. I know how hard it can be to advocate for yourself—especially when your livelihood is at stake—but you don’t have to do it alone. Together, we’ll fight for what’s right and work toward a solution that empowers you to move forward.
Why Santa Cruz Workers Need a Local Advocate
Santa Cruz is known for its laid-back lifestyle, but when it comes to work, many people here juggle multiple jobs just to keep up with the high cost of living. The industries are as diverse as the people: tourism, tech, education, agriculture, and small businesses are all part of the local economy. Whether you’re a barista in downtown Santa Cruz, an engineer commuting from Scotts Valley, a professor at UCSC, or a farmworker in Watsonville, the challenges you face at work can be real—and personal.
I understand the dynamics here. Santa Cruz has a unique vibe: workers and businesses tend to be progressive, but that doesn’t always mean fair treatment on the job. Employers—big or small—still misclassify employees, retaliate against those who speak up, or ignore serious sexual harassment complaints. That’s where having a local employment lawyer with experience matters. I know the rhythms of Santa Cruz, the challenges of seasonal employment, and the kinds of issues that pop up in different industries across the Central Coast.
What I Do for Santa Cruz Workers
At Central Coast Employment Law, I focus on helping workers like you. I handle a wide range of employment cases because every worker deserves fair treatment, regardless of the type of job they do. Below are some of the issues I can help with:
Wrongful Termination
Being fired from your job can feel like your world is collapsing, especially when you’ve done nothing wrong. Employers sometimes terminate employees illegally—for standing up for themselves, taking medical leave, or reporting unlawful conduct. If you’ve been wrongfully terminated in Santa Cruz or anywhere nearby, I’ll help you fight back. We’ll dig into the details, gather evidence, and build a case to make things right.
Retaliation
Speaking up about unfair practices takes courage, but unfortunately, not every employer appreciates that kind of bravery. Whether you’ve reported unsafe working conditions, filed a wage claim, or called out discrimination, your employer cannot legally retaliate against you. Retaliation takes many forms—getting fired, demoted, or harassed at work. I help employees hold employers accountable for any unlawful retaliation they experience.
Workplace Harassment
No one should have to endure harassment at work. Whether it’s sexual harassment, bullying, or a toxic environment caused by managers or co-workers, you have the right to a safe, respectful workplace. I’ve helped many workers in Santa Cruz confront workplace harassment head-on. If you’re dealing with this, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Let’s address the problem together and find a path forward that protects your dignity and your job.
Discrimination
Santa Cruz prides itself on inclusivity, but discrimination still happens. Whether it’s age, race, gender, disability, religion, or pregnancy-related discrimination, you deserve better. Employers cannot treat you unfairly or make decisions based on these protected categories. If you believe you’ve been discriminated against at work in Santa Cruz, I’ll stand by your side and ensure your voice is heard. No one should feel less-than because of who they are or the life circumstances they face.
Wage and Hour Violations
Many Santa Cruz workers are employed in tourism, retail, or agriculture—industries where wage theft can occur. From unpaid overtime to denied breaks or being misclassified as an independent contractor, these violations can add up fast. Whether you’re a farmworker in Watsonville or a bartender in Capitola, your time and labor are valuable. If your employer isn’t following wage laws, I can help you recover what you’re owed.
Family and Medical Leave Issues
Balancing work and family is hard enough without having to fight for your legal right to time off. Whether you need medical leave for yourself, a new child, or to care for a family member, California law provides important protections. If your employer has denied you family or medical leave or retaliated against you for taking it, I’ll help you assert your rights.
Why Work With Me?
Choosing the right employment lawyer is a big decision. You need someone who not only knows employment law inside and out but also understands the local culture and how things work around here. Here are a few reasons why I believe I’m the right advocate for you:
I Know Santa Cruz
I live on the Central Coast, so I know the ins and outs of Santa Cruz, Watsonville, and all the surrounding communities. This place is home to me, just like it is for you. That means I understand the industries, the culture, and the values that make Santa Cruz unique—and I use that knowledge to help local workers.
I’m Pro-Employee, Always
Some law firms take cases from both employees and employers. Not me. I only represent employees, never employers. My goal is simple: protect workers’ rights and make sure employers play by the rules. I’m passionate about helping underdogs—people who’ve been mistreated or taken advantage of—and I’ll fight for you every step of the way.
You Get Direct Access to Me
When you hire me, you get me. I don’t hand off cases to junior attorneys or paralegals. If you have a question or need help, you can reach me directly—by phone, email, or even text. I want you to feel supported and confident throughout the entire process.
Free Case Evaluations
I offer free, confidential case evaluations to everyone. If you think you’ve been wronged at work, reach out. I’ll listen to your story, help you understand your options, and point you in the right direction—even if I’m not the right lawyer for your situation. If I can help, we’ll schedule a free consultation and take the next steps together.
I Know How to Win
I’ve built a reputation for winning against big companies that try to bully or intimidate workers. I’ve represented employees throughout California, and won. My clients know they’re in good hands because I combine legal knowledge with the tenacity to fight for what’s right. Whether your case settles out of court or we take it all the way to trial, I’ll be by your side every step of the way.
Industries I Work With in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is home to a wide range of industries, each with its own employment challenges. Here’s a quick look at some of the industries I frequently work with:
Tourism & Hospitality: From hotels in downtown Santa Cruz to restaurants along the boardwalk, these workers often face wage theft, overtime violations, and harassment.
Technology: Santa Cruz is a growing tech hub. Engineers, designers, and developers working in local startups sometimes deal with wage issues, contract disputes, and workplace discrimination.
Education: UCSC employees and staff often encounter challenges related to contract disputes, harassment, and retaliation.
Agriculture: Farmworkers in Watsonville are essential to our economy but can face unsafe working conditions, wage theft, and discrimination.
Retail: Retail workers in places like Capitola Mall often experience wage issues, denied breaks, and workplace harassment.
No matter where you work, if you’ve been mistreated on the job, I’m here to help.
Serving All of Santa Cruz and Beyond
My practice isn’t limited to Santa Cruz. I also serve workers in surrounding communities, including:
Watsonville: Known for its agricultural roots, Watsonville is home to many hardworking farmworkers and laborers who need legal support.
Scotts Valley: Employees in tech, manufacturing, and retail in Scotts Valley sometimes need help with employment disputes.
Capitola: With its retail and hospitality scene, Capitola workers often encounter wage violations and harassment issues.
Aptos & Soquel: Small business employees and seasonal workers in these areas also face unique employment challenges.
Let’s Fight for What’s Right
I know that taking legal action can feel overwhelming. You might be wondering if it’s worth the fight, or if you’ll even have a chance against a big employer. But I believe in the power of standing up for what’s right—and I believe in you. Together, we’ll work to protect your rights, hold employers accountable, and get you the justice you deserve.
If you’ve experienced unfair treatment at work, don’t wait. Reach out today for your free case evaluation. Let’s talk about what happened, explore your options, and figure out the best way forward. You’re not alone in this—I’ve got your back.
Contact Me Today
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact me today. Whether you call Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Capitola, or Scotts Valley home, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to make things right and secure the justice you deserve. Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to employment law claims—there are strict deadlines, and missing them could prevent you from taking action. Don’t let fear or uncertainty keep you from protecting your rights. Reach out today, and let’s get started.
What Happens When You Contact Me?
I understand that reaching out to a lawyer can be intimidating, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of a workplace issue. But don’t worry—getting help doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what you can expect when you contact Central Coast Employment Law:
Free Case Evaluation:
When you reach out, I’ll ask you to tell me about your situation. This evaluation is completely confidential, and there’s no obligation to move forward if you don’t want to. I’ll listen carefully to understand your story and assess the strength of your case. If I think I can help, I’ll schedule a free consultation where we can talk more. If I don’t think I can help, I’ll get you pointed in the right direction, typically the same business day.Clear Guidance:
If I believe you have a case, I’ll explain your options in plain language—no legal jargon, just clear, honest advice. If I think someone else might be better suited to help, I’ll point you in the right direction.A Plan of Action:
If we decide to move forward, we’ll develop a strategy tailored to your specific situation. Whether that means negotiating with your employer, filing a claim with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), or taking the case to court, I’ll guide you through every step.Direct Communication:
Throughout the process, you’ll have direct access to me. I’m not the kind of lawyer who disappears after signing a client. I’ll keep you informed, answer your questions, and make sure you always know what’s happening with your case.
Your Rights as a Worker in California
California workers have some of the strongest legal protections in the country. It’s important to know your rights so you can recognize when they’ve been violated. Here are just a few key rights that all employees in Santa Cruz and across the state have:
The Right to a Workplace Free from Discrimination and Harassment:
Employers cannot discriminate against you based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, or any other protected category. You also have the right to be free from harassment by co-workers, supervisors, or customers.The Right to Equal Pay:
California’s Equal Pay Act requires that employees performing substantially similar work receive equal pay, regardless of gender or other protected characteristics.The Right to Overtime and Fair Wages:
You are entitled to overtime pay if you work more than 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week, unless you are exempt under state law. You also have the right to rest and meal breaks during your shift.The Right to Family and Medical Leave:
Under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), you may be eligible for unpaid leave to care for a family member, recover from a serious health condition, or bond with a new child.The Right to Speak Out Without Retaliation:
You have the right to report unsafe working conditions, wage violations, or other unlawful behavior without fear of retaliation from your employer.
If you believe any of these rights—or others—have been violated, I can help you take action.
Let’s Make Santa Cruz a Fairer Place to Work
I believe that every worker in Santa Cruz deserves to be treated with respect and fairness. Whether you’re fighting for better wages, equal treatment, or simply the right to do your job without fear of harassment or retaliation, I’m here to stand with you.
The road ahead may feel uncertain, but you’re not alone in this. Together, we can fight for your rights and work toward a future where every worker is valued. You have the strength to take this step, and I have the experience to guide you through it.
Contact Central Coast Employment Law Today
If you’ve been wronged at work, don’t wait—reach out today. Get your free case evaluation. I’m ready to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your next steps.
Whether you’re in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Capitola, or anywhere else along the Central Coast, I’m here to help. Let’s make your workplace—and our community—better for everyone.
Santa Cruz is a beautiful place to live and work. Together, we can ensure it’s a place where workers are treated fairly, too.